Understanding the Belgian constitution: a citizen’s guide
Understanding the Belgian constitution: a citizen’s guide
Politics

Thu. April 17, 12:00PM

Understanding the Belgian constitution: a citizen’s guide

How the rules that govern Belgium—and the current institutional crisis in Brussels—shape our lives, politics, and future.

Brussels is currently facing a major institutional crisis, with no regional government in place and no resolution in sight. This political deadlock, driven by deep-seated tensions and party vetoes, is more than a passing impasse—it’s a constitutional issue with serious implications for governance and democracy in Belgium.


Belgium’s constitution is the backbone of the country’s political system, yet it remains a mystery to many. How does it function? What rights and responsibilities does it grant citizens? And how do constitutional debates shape the future of Belgium?


Join us for an insightful conversation with Christian Behrendt, one of Belgium’s leading constitutional law experts, as he unpacks the fundamental principles of the Belgian constitution in an accessible and engaging way. From the country’s federal structure to the powers of government and the role of the monarchy, this session will clarify the often-complex world of Belgian constitutional law.


Whether you are a business leader, policymaker, journalist, or simply a curious citizen, this event will equip you with the knowledge to better understand the legal framework that governs Belgium. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage in a dynamic discussion on the rules that shape our society.


speaker

Christian Behrendt

Christian Behrendt is a professor of constitutional law at the University of Liège and an assessor at Belgium’s Council of State. With an academic background spanning the University of Liège, Oxford, Yale, and the University of Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, he is recognized as one of the country’s foremost experts on constitutional law. Behrendt also teaches at the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven and the Royal Military Academy, contributing to the training of Belgium’s future legal minds. His work focuses on the interpretation and evolution of constitutional law in Belgium, addressing key legal and institutional challenges. Through his research, teaching, and public engagements, he is committed to making constitutional law more accessible to the public, ensuring that Belgian citizens understand the legal foundations of their democracy.

moderator

Salma Haouach

Salma Haouach is a management engineer, graduating from Solvay in 2001. With over 20 years of experience in consulting and strategy across France, Spain, Morocco, and Brussels, Salma has carved a distinguished path in both the corporate, politics and media sectors. Salma is currently the Deputy General Director of Wallonie-Bruxelles Enseignement. She is a contributing writer for Forbes Belgium and columnist for Bel RTL.
Start
Thu. April 17, 12:00PM
End
Thu. April 17, 2:00PM
Format
TheMerode Talks
Language
English (US)
Guest allowed?
Yes, 1 per member

Address

Event
Place Poelaert, 6
1000 Brussels
Belgium
Parking
Parking Poelaert, Place Poelaert 1000 Brussels

Detailed programme

Welcome
Thu. April 17, 12:00PM
Start of the talk
Thu. April 17, 12:30PM
Q & A
Thu. April 17, 1:30PM
End
Thu. April 17, 2:00PM